What is the Proposal?

1. National Planning Policy Framework Planning Regulations

 

Current Planning Policy & Regulations

We are currently operating under this version of the NPPF:

National Planning Policy Framework - Guidance - GOV.UK

 

Proposed Changes to National Planning Policy Framework Planning Regulations

Proposed changes to National Planning Policy Framework Planning Regulations (NPPF) have recently been open to consultation by the Government. The consultation is now closed, but we await the outcome with interest.

National Planning Policy Framework: draft text for consultation

The proposed changes to the NPPF includes, removing the requirement for decision makers to give “great weight” to the economic benefits of onshore oil and gas developments when considering planning applications. This requirement has benefitted energy companies for decades. Proposed changes may tip the balance back towards communities.

 

2. Minerals and Waste Joint Plan

The Minerals and Waste Joint Plan for North Yorkshire, provides a framework for planning decisions on minerals and waste development, ensuring that essential resources are extracted and waste is managed efficiently while protecting high quality landscapes, historic environments, and designated areas such as National Parks and Natural Landscapes (formerly Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty - AONBs in North Yorkshire.

Minerals and waste joint plan - adopted document

 

3. Ryedale Local Plan

Ryedale plan - local plan strategy. This sets out how much new housing, employment and retail development should go where from now until 2027. It also guides other forms of development (including hydrocarbon extraction applications) and protects key environmental and historic features in Ryedale.

 

Development plan policies | North Yorkshire Council

 

This will eventually be superceded by the developing North Yorkshire Local Plan, which will guide future development and conservation in the area until 2045. This plan covers North Yorkshire, excluding the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales National Parks, and outlines their priorities for land use and development.

 

The North Yorkshire Local Plan | North Yorkshire Council

 

How Planning Applications Are Decided

What do Planning Authorities actually take into account when deciding an application?

 The answer: only "material planning considerations" matter.

Anything outside this scope is called a non-material consideration and cannot legally influence the decision.

 Examples of Material Considerations (valid points):

• Traffic & highway safety

• Noise, light, or smell pollution

• Impact on local services & infrastructure

• Design, layout & appearance

• Heritage, ecology & conservation impact

• Flood risk

• Compliance with planning policy

 Examples of Non-Material Considerations (not valid):

• Loss of property value

• Loss of a private view

• The applicant’s identity, behaviour, or motives

• Moral objections (e.g. to betting shops, fast food, etc.)

• Competition with existing businesses

• Speculation about future misuse

• Boundary disputes or covenants

Why this matters:

If you want your comments on a planning application to count, stick to material considerations.

Non-material issues, no matter how strongly felt, carry no legal weight in planning decisions.

 

 

Challenges Faced By Communities Dealing With Oil and Gas Planning Applications

The current planning regulations are stacked against local communities.

Please click on the link to gain some insight into the challenges:

https://drillordrop.com/2025/10/28/guest-post-community-challenges-with-the-planning-system/